There’s more to Nashville than honky-tonks, Carrie Underwood karaoke, bachelorette parties, and hot chicken—a whole lot more. And part of that is the city’s vibrant lgbtq+Q scene and its handful of bars and clubs catering to the community of locals and tourists alike. In Nashville, you can dance your heart out to Britney and Gaga between drag shows featuring Reba- and Dolly-inspired queens, indulge in local craft beer during a boozy drag brunch, or spend a night at one of America’s last remaining lesbian bars, Lipstick Lounge.

Nashville is a party city, and it’s not just for country music-loving out-of-towners (though its country roots permeate throughout). Whether you’re looking for fog machines and disco balls or an inclusive Tuesday night Tailgate beer (a Nashville favorite), here are some of the best lgbtq+Q bars and events in Music City.

 

Popular Gay Events and Venues in Nashville, TN:

1. Nashville Pride Festival: This is an annual event typically held in June to commemorate and celebrate lgbtq+Q+ rights, acceptance, and history. The festival features a variety of entertainment, including live music performances, food vendors, and informational booths.
2. OutCentral's Gay Bingo: This is a fun, community-driven event hosted by OutCentral, Nashville's lgbtq+ center. It's a great way to meet new people and support a good cause, as funds raised go toward supporting OutCentral's programs and services.
3. Tennessee Transgender Pride Festival: This event, usually held in September, focuses on celebrating the Trans community within Nashville and the broader Tennessee area. It often includes a variety of activities, such as workshops, panels, and social events.
4. lgbtq+ Chamber of Commerce Events: The Nashville lgbtq+ Chamber of Commerce regularly hosts events aimed at supporting lgbtq+Q+ businesses and professionals. These can range from networking events to educational seminars and workshops.
5. Queer Film Festival: This festival showcases films by and about the lgbtq+Q+ community, providing a platform for diverse voices and stories.
6. Drag Shows: Nashville is home to several venues that regularly host drag shows, such as Play Dance Bar and Tribe.

List of Gay Bars and Hotspots  in Nashville, TN:

1. Play Dance Bar- Want to dance your heart out? Then head to Play, Nashville’s most popular gay club, (ironically or very purposfully) located on Church Street, sort of in Midtown, sort of in Downtown, and not too far from Music Row. At Play, headline drag queens frequently grace the stage, but Nashville’s favorite local queens are the main attraction. Here, you can catch a drag show starting at 9 pm on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, or just come shake it till you can’t make it on the dance floor. And if you want to make friends, the back patio is the perfect place to cool down and chat with people from all over the world.
2. Canvas- Another great spot on the Church Street drag (no pun intended), Canvas is an eclectic bar that’s quintessential Nashville: It’s a little divey, comfortably dark, has a mix-match of random-but-thoughtful decor, and is always a whole lot of fun. Known for its incredibly friendly bartenders and shockingly good food, Canvas is a great place to chat it up with strangers at the bar, dance with good company, let loose on karaoke night, or join an '80s music video dance party.
3. Suzy Wong’s House of Yum- Biscuits 'n gravy and a drag show? Welcome to Nashville, baby. Featuring an Asian-meets-southern menu, with dishes like katsu chicken and waffles and BBQ pulled pork with Sriracha, Suzy Wong’s House of Yum is where you can soak up last night’s booze in the company of the queens you tossed dollars at next door at Play. With shows on Friday at noon and 10:30 am and 1 pm shows on Saturday and Sunday, make sure you grab a reservation for your seat at this boozy, inclusive brunch. Not necessarily an lgbtq+Q bar, it is a Nashville staple that, love it or hate it, is part of the Church Street scene.
4. Lipstick Lounge- According to The Lesbian Bar Project, “In the late 1980s, there were an estimated 200 Lesbian Bars across the country. Now there are thought to just be 21.” And luckily for Tennessee, Nashville’s Lipstick Lounge is one of them. Self-described as “a bar for humans,” this East Nashville treasure has it all: karaoke, trivia, boozy brunch, live music, a nice patio, great food, and, most importantly, a sense of purpose and community that’s truly inclusive of all. An iconic bar in Nashville, you won’t regret stopping at Lipstick Lounge anytime its friendly doors are open.
5. Trax- A totally welcoming bar with super affordable drinks, Trax is might not be the queer bar you hear about first but it’s one you won’t forget. Located a little off the beaten path compared to some of Nashville’s other lgbtq+Q bars, Trax is a great hole-in-the-wall sort of place that caters to locals and tourists alike. Two-for-one specials will quench your thirst and the friendly staff and patrons are good for the soul.
6. Tribe- Right next to Play, Tribe is a slightly more subtle lgbtq+Q bar and lounge offering a mix of weekly events, happy hours, food, and more. Dark and luminescent, Tribe can be the place to spend a boozy Sunday afternoon (it opens at noon on the weekends) or a solid place to grab drinks after work with special happy hour pricing. But drinking isn’t Tribe’s only activity; stop in on Thursday for bingo and karaoke (and two-for-one drinks) or swing by on Sunday for show tune night or karaoke.
7. Pecker’s Bar & Grill- Linedancing, sports, and the Mr. Nashville Leather contest call Pecker’s, an unassuming bar close to Downtown, home. Here you can get (almost) whatever you want: an lgbtq+Q-friendly honky-tonk, the Titan’s game, a local singer-songwriter, karaoke, wings, bingo, beer in a glass bottle, and that Music City warmness that makes you feel like you belong even if it’s your first time in the Volunteer State.

Gay-friendly hotels in Nashville:

1. Hutton Hotel (Gay-Friendly): Situated in Nashville's West End neighborhood, Hutton Hotel provides a contemporary and sophisticated experience. The hotel offers chic rooms, exceptional dining options, and a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for all guests. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com Link
2. The Hermitage Hotel (Gay-Friendly): A historic landmark in downtown Nashville, The Hermitage Hotel boasts timeless elegance and exceptional service. With its luxurious accommodations and top-notch amenities, this hotel provides a memorable experience for all guests. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com Link
3. Kimpton Aertson Hotel (Gay-Friendly): Situated in Nashville's Midtown neighborhood, Kimpton Aertson Hotel combines contemporary design with Southern charm. The hotel features stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and a variety of amenities that cater to the needs of all guests. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com Link
4. Thompson Nashville (Gay-Friendly): Located in The Gulch neighborhood, Thompson Nashville offers boutique accommodations with a modern flair. Guests can enjoy luxurious rooms, a rooftop bar with stunning city views, and a prime location near popular attractions. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com Link
5. Fairlane Hotel (Gay-Friendly): Situated in a historic building in downtown Nashville, Fairlane Hotel combines retro style with contemporary amenities. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and multiple dining options for a delightful stay. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com Link
6. Bobby Hotel (Gay-Friendly): Bobby Hotel, situated in Printer's Alley, is a trendy and eclectic hotel known for its vibrant atmosphere. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms, a rooftop lounge, and various entertainment options within walking distance. Check Availability and Prices: Booking.com Link